Flex time for Columbia County government employees

It's another example of how local governments are dealing with tough economic times.

Columbia County offices have begun a flex schedule, with many of the agencies opting to open four days a week instead of five. And workdays lasting ten hours instead of eight.

Officials hope the new schedule will save the county money on utilities. They also say it will help county employees save money on gas.

"Our employees really like it. They like the idea of flexibility they have in their schedules and so far we've had a good response from the public," says Scott Johnson, an assistant to the Columbia County administrator.

Each county department made its own decision about how to best handle the flex schedule.

Officials will evaluate the cost savings in three months.